In bitter sweet news for a fan favorite in Atlanta, Ron Washington will not fill one of the open managerial roles going into 2022. After the Oakland Athletics made their hiring of Mark Kotsay official, all 30 managerial spots are filled.
A’s hire Mark Kotsay as manager
— Jon Heyman (@JonHeyman) December 20, 2021
For the Braves, this is fantastic news. Washington is undoubtedly one of the best assistant coaches in baseball and has been critical in the development of arguably the best infield in baseball. Combine that with the rest of his resumé, and few guys around the league are more deserving of a promotion. But unfortunately, with teams attempting to get younger and more analytically based, a 69-year-old manager isn’t the sexiest choice.
Still, I had a feeling this year was going to be the year for Wash. He’s been a top candidate for a while now, and I thought the World Series victory would have finally convinced a team to give him another chance as the lead man. Back in October, Washington had this to say about the job as the Padres manager when it became available.
Ron Washington on the Padres’ managerial opening: “I think I’m qualified. I think I can get that team over the hump. That’s my thinking. … I’m definitely able to get them where they want to go.” https://t.co/pA2As6cPUi
— Robert Murray (@ByRobertMurray) October 11, 2021
There’s no doubt in my mind Wash will eventually get another opportunity as a manager. There isn’t a candidate more deserving, but he’ll be the first person to tell you there are no hard feelings. He’s got a great gig in Atlanta, and everybody in Braves Country is thankful he will be returning for at least one more season.
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